New York Social Diary

L’Auberge Chez Francois for Saturday lunch. This is one of the area’s most enduring restaurants and please let it be there for years to come. A half hour drive from the city, out near Great Falls in Virginia, it is reminiscent of the charming country French restaurants up the Merritt Parkway (La Cremaillere in Banksville comes to mind). It is charming, the food is delicious, and it is the perfect reward after a challenging hike along the trails of Great Falls Park. The 4-course prix fixe at $42 is a deal. The menu is extensive. I like to start with the trio of salmons, followed by steak frites, salad, and chocolate soufflé. The wine list is well priced and smartly edited.

One of the dining rooms at L’Auberge Chez Francois.

Table for two.

Steak frites at L’Auberge Chez Francois.

Chocolate souffle at L’Auberge Chez Francois (earn it with a hike at Great Falls Park).